Fishing in Biscayne National Park
Fishing in Biscayne National Park
Biscayne's clear shallow waters are world-class for snapper, grouper, tarpon, and bonefish, and you can fish from the wheelchair-accessible Convoy Point jetty without hiring a guide. You'll need a Florida saltwater license (free for kids under 16) and must obey strict regulations—many species are banned outright (Nassau grouper, goliath grouper, queen conch, sawfish, sea turtles), and catch limits are tighter here than elsewhere in Florida. Plan 4–6 hours and prepare for intense sun exposure on the open jetty.
Wheelchair-accessible world-class saltwater fishing for snapper, grouper, tarpon, and bonefish in a marine sanctuary where ecosystem protections preserve fish populations better than most Florida state waters.
Quick facts
- Difficulty
- Low to moderate. Jetty fishing is mostly seated casting and reeling for 4–6 hours. Private boat and wading fishing in flats requires more exertion and swimming ability.
- Meeting point
- Convoy Point Visitor Center and jetty parking area (wheelchair-accessible)
✓ Book this if…
- You want self-guided saltwater fishing access to world-class reef and flats fish without hiring a guide and you're willing to learn strict FWC regulations.
- Saltwater anglers seeking self-guided access to world-class snapper, grouper, tarpon, and bonefish without hiring a guide.
- Wheelchair-accessible jetty option for those with mobility limitations.
× Skip it if…
- You need equipment rental, guided services, real-time fish reports, or outfitting support—the park provides water access and beautiful habitat, not a full fishing operation.
Before you book
Do I need a Florida fishing license?
Yes, unless you're under 16. Saltwater license costs $30–50 depending on residency and duration. Buy it on the FWC website before your trip; NPS rangers check.
Is the Convoy Point jetty really wheelchair-accessible?
Yes. The jetty bridge at Convoy Point is fully wheelchair-accessible for hook-and-line fishing. Cast netting is prohibited there.
What fish can I actually catch?
Snapper, grouper, tarpon, and bonefish are world-class targets. But Nassau grouper, goliath grouper, queen conch, sawfish, sea turtles, and many shark species are completely banned. Bag limits are stricter than in open Florida waters.
Can I fish from my own boat?
Yes, but lobster fishing is prohibited in the Biscayne Bay/Card Sound Sanctuary and five Coral Reef Protection Areas marked with yellow buoys. Check the FWC Biscayne map before you launch.
Is cast netting allowed?
No, not at Convoy Point jetty or footbridge. Hook-and-line only. Other park areas have different rules—check the FWC map.
Do I need special permits for tarpon or lobster?
Yes. Tarpon requires a separate tag, and spiny lobster has additional permit requirements and is prohibited in most park waters. Check FWC rules before targeting these species.
